142 NEUROPTERA. 



Hemerobid/E {Aphis-lions, Ant-lions, etc.). 



The Aphis-lions, Chrysopa. — Eggs placed on stalks, 

 attached to plants. The larvse are carnivorons, feed- 

 ing on insect eggs, plant-lice, small caterpillars, and 

 other insects. When full grown, the larva spins a 

 small, white, silken cocoon. In this the pupa remains 

 during the winter. Some species are double brooded ; 

 in these the pupa state, of the first brood, lasts about 

 two weeks. The perfect insect escapes from the co- 

 coon by cutting a lid in one side of it. 



These insects are known in the adult state as Lace- 

 winged flies, or Golden-eyed flies. They may be eas- 

 ily recognized by their delicate green bodies, large, lace- 

 like wings, and bright golden eyes. Some species emit 

 a very disagreeable odor. (4, I., 70 — 96; 3, I.. 57, fig. 

 20). 



The Ant-lions, Mynnclcon. — The larva; resemble in 

 form the Aphis-lions. They are able to walk only 

 backwards, on account of the peculiar manner in- 

 which the posterior legs are articulated to the body. 

 They are carnivorous, feeding on wingless insects, es- 

 pecially ants, which they trap in pit-falls. These pit- 

 falls are made in fine sand ; the larvae are concealed 

 at the bottom ready to seize any insect that may fall 

 into them. 



Note, carefully, manner of digging pit-falls, and 

 other details in the habits of the larva. 



The pupa state is passed in a cocoon made of sand, 

 fastened together with silk, and neatly lined with the 

 same material. As with the Aphis-lion, the silk is 

 spun from a spinneret, placed at the posterior extrem- 

 ity of the body. 



